The FIA statement said: “Following an examination undertaken this morning at the Bahrain International Medical Centre it has been decided that McLaren Honda F1 team driver Fernando Alonso should not take part in this weekend’s Bahrain Grand Prix.

“Two sets of chest CT scans were compared and it was decided that there was insufficient resolution of the signs to allow him to compete on safety grounds.

“A repeat chest scan has been requested before the Chinese Grand Prix and the results will be considered before allowing him to race there.”

McLaren have announced that test driver Stoffel Vandoorne will therefore make his Formula 1 debut this weekend.

“Following a decision by the FIA doctors, Fernando Alonso will not be participating in this weekend’s 2016 Bahrain Grand Prix,” said the team’s statement.

“Following any on-track incident, we will always abide by the FIA doctors’ decisions.

“As usual, McLaren Honda reserve driver Stoffel Vandoorne will be on hand on Friday morning and will make his Formula 1 debut in place of Fernando.”

Vandoorne, the reigning GP2 Champion, is expected to arrive at the Sakhir circuit on Friday morning.